Carmel: Trying to clean up dog waste problem

CARMEL &GT;&GT; The city of Carmel is trying to fashion a higher profile for 17 "mitt mitten" stations along the city beach and Mission Trail Preserve.

The Save the Whales group has put emblems on the dispensers, which contain disposable bags for dog waste, to remind people to pick up after their pets.

The city has been making the effort in the wake of reports by cleanup groups that more dog waste is being left on the beach — mutt mitts or not.

That not only detracts from the enjoyment of the beach for others, but can degrade ocean water quality.

The locations of the stations will be mapped and distributed to visitors on cards and brochures, said public services director Sharon Friedrichsen.

The city also is considering a color change for the waste bags, which are dark green, to make them more visible. Friedrichsen said prices for other colors, such as pink or orange, are being checked with a distributor.

Carmel Beach is a popular spot that allows dogs to walk or run off leash.